Analysis of the indigenous modernization model as a transition approach from Western modernity in Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei's civilization-building project

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Department of Political Science, Ma.C., Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.
10.22084/rjir.2026.32212.4019
Abstract
Purpose: The present study aims to explain the “model of indigenous modernity in Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei’s civilization-building project.” The main issue is how, within the framework of the thought of the Martyr Leader of the Islamic Revolution, an alternative model of modernity can be presented that, while benefiting from the achievements of rationality and modern science, is compatible with Iran’s religious and cultural foundations.

Research Methodology: The research method is analytical-descriptive, with an interpretative approach and based on documentary study. An attempt has been made to examine the conceptual and epistemological structure of the indigenous modernization model in his view by examining the statements and works of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

Findings: The research findings show that in the civilization-building project proposed in Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei's thought, indigenous modernity is based on three fundamental structures: religious rationality, criticism of Western modernity along with designing an Islamic-Iranian progress model, and realistic idealism. Six key characteristics form the operational structure of this model: spirituality-orientation, justice-seeking, science-orientation, independence-seeking, religious democracy, and preservation of national identity.

Conclusion: This article shows that the indigenous modernization model in Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei's thought is an attempt to present a comprehensive model of civilizational development that simultaneously emphasizes the connection between ethics, justice, and science and enables the transition from Western modernity to the realization of a new Islamic civilization.

Keywords

Islamic Civilization, Indigenous Modernity, Religious Rationality, Islamic-Iranian Progress, Realistic Idealism, Justice-Seeking.
Keywords


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 14 July 2026